Peer 2 Peer & Client Server Networking Peer 2 Peer & Client Server

Client Server/Peer 2 Peer What's the difference? Network require special software to control the flow of information between users. A Network Operating System, or NOS, is installed onto each PC that requires network access. The NOS is like a football referee that monitors most things. These are things such as exchange and flow of files electronic mail other network information Network Operating Systems are classified according to whether they are peer-to-peer or client-server NOSs

Network Operating Systems Peer-to-peer NOS’s like Windows 7 and 10 are best for home & small office use...   they are great for sharing applications, data, printers, and other localised resources across a few PCs (Max 10) Client-server NOS’s like Windows server, Unix and MacOS are ideal for large-scale organisations that require fast network access for video, publishing, multimedia, spreadsheet, database, and accounting operations and file sharing.      

Peer to Peer The P2P acronym technically stands for "peer-to-peer" computer networking. Webopedia defines P2P as "A type of network in which each workstation has equivalent capabilities and responsibilities. This differs from client/server architectures, in which some computers are dedicated to serving the others. " In other words: A peer-to-peer network allows two or more PCs to pool their resources together. Individual resources like disk drives, CD-ROM drives, and even printers are transformed into shared, collective resources that are accessible from every PC. 

Peer to Peer Cont… Unlike client-server networks, where network information is stored on a centralised PC (file server) and made available to tens, hundreds, or thousands client PCs, the information stored across peer-to-peer networks is uniquely decentralised. Because peer-to-peer PCs have their own hard disk drives that are accessible by all computers, each PC acts as both a client (information requestor) and a server (information provider).

Peer to Peer Cont…. Conclusion After the networking hardware has been installed, a peer-to-peer network software package must be installed onto all of the PCs. Such a package allows information to be transferred back and forth between the PCs, hard disks, and other devices when users request it. Popular peer-to-peer NOS software includes Windows98, Windows 95, Windows 2000, Artisoft LANtastic, and NetWare Lite. Conclusion Each computer is an equal, or peer, of the others and can share files and peripherals connected to the network. While a peer-to-peer network is a simple, low-cost, easy to-install solution, it is not as efficient for finding, retrieving and storing files.

Client Server Client Server A client/server network uses a network operating system (NOS) which designed to manage the whole network from one central SERVER In client/server computing, processes are divided between the client and the server. This relationship is based on a series of requests and responses. Client Requests services or information from another computer (the server computer). Server Responds to the client's request by sending the results of the request back to the client computer.

Client Server Cont…. The client computer runs a software application called a client program. This software allows a computer to act as a client, this Enables the user to send a request for information to the server. Formats the request so that the server can understand it. Formats the response from the server in a way that the user can read. The server computer runs a software application called a server program. This software allows a computer to act as a server. this Receives a request from a client and processes the request. Responds by sending the requested information back to the client.

Client Server Cont…. The following diagram illustrates the relationship between client and server computers. The client requests information; the server processes the request and sends a response back to the client.

Client Server Cont…. In a client-server environment files are stored on a centralised, high speed file server that is made available to client PCs. Network access speeds are usually faster than those found on peer-to-peer networks, which is reasonable given the vast numbers of clients that this architecture can support.  Nearly all network services like printing, web and electronic mail are routed through the file server, which allows networking tasks to be tracked.

Client Server Conclusion The presence of a central computer or server in this configuration provides several advantages. As files are stored in a single location, they are easier to update, back up, and archive with dependable results. The server is typically a high-performance computer that ensures speedy data access and delivery, and gives a business the platform to add capabilities such as centralised accounting and general ledger, manufacturing, order entry, shipping, or inventory management software.

Conclusion The type of network setup you chose depends on a large number of factors theses include: Cost Size of organisation Practicability Functions needed by the organisation